The Tiger Times
Dear CMIT South Elementary Tiger Families,
Welcome back to what promises to be our most extraordinary school year yet! As your Principal, I am genuinely excited to embark on this transformative educational journey alongside you, your scholars, and our entire school community.
As we begin this incredible journey together, I want you to know that every decision we make, every program we implement, and every interaction we have is guided by one fundamental principle: what's best for your child and all our students. This year, we're embracing the theme "Leveling Up the STEMTasTic Way" – a commitment that goes beyond traditional learning to ignite genuine passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in every young mind that walks through our doors. The theme "Leveling Up the STEMTasTic Way" isn't just a slogan – it's our commitment to elevating every aspect of your child's educational experience. We're not just preparing students for the next grade level; we're preparing them for a future filled with possibilities they haven't even imagined yet.
Your partnership, support, and engagement are invaluable to this mission. Together, we can create an environment where every Tiger feels valued, challenged, supported, and inspired to reach their greatest potential.
Ready to Roar!
The excitement in our hallways is palpable as we prepare to welcome back our Tiger family. Our teachers have spent countless hours preparing engaging lessons, creating welcoming classroom environments, and planning innovative STEM experiences that will challenge and inspire your scholars.
Welcome Our New Tiger Team Members!
We are excited to introduce the talented new educators and staff joining our CMIT South Elementary family this year:
Assistant Principal Kerry Patton
Kindergarten Teacher Ms. Young
1st Grade Teacher Ms. Hammond
1st Grade Teacher Ms. Garrett
5th Grade Teacher Mr. Barr
Technology Teacher Mr. Dickens
STEM LEGO Teacher Ms. Brown
Physical Education Teacher Mr. Adu
Dedicated Aide Mr. Bullock
Please join us in giving these outstanding professionals a warm Tiger welcome as they begin their journey with our school community. We're thrilled to have them on our team as we continue "Leveling Up the STEMTasTic Way!"
Getting Started: Essential Dates and Information
Kindergarten Orientation
Monday, August 25, 2025 | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Our kindergarten families will receive a special welcome designed to ease the transition into elementary school. This comprehensive orientation will introduce your little scholars to their new environment, routines, and the exciting learning adventures ahead.
Sneak a Peek at Your Seat
Monday, August 25, 2025
Grades 1st & 2nd: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Grades 3rd - 5th: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
This cherished tradition allows students and families to:
Meet their teachers in a relaxed, welcoming environment
Explore their new classrooms and learning spaces
Drop off school supplies to make the first day smoother
Begin building the home-school partnership that's crucial to student success
Important Guidelines for Sneak a Peek:
This event is designed for general introductions and classroom visits
Please save student-specific questions and concerns for individual teacher conferences
Teachers will be available for detailed discussions via email, phone, Zoom, or face-to-face meetings after the school year begins
Classroom placements have been carefully determined by our educational team and are finalized
Can't make it? Don't worry! Our Back to School Night on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 (6:00 PM - 7:30 PM) provides another opportunity to connect with teachers and explore our learning environment.
School Supply Information: Visit our comprehensive supply list at https://cmitsouthes.org/cmit-families/students/school-supply-list/
First Day of School: Tuesday, August 26, 2025
Daily Schedule Overview:
Building Opens: 7:35 AM (students may enter)
Breakfast Service: Available in the cafeteria until 8:00 AM
Classes Begin: 8:00 AM sharp
Tardy Policy: Students arriving after 8:05 AM will receive a tardy pass
Back Gate Closure: 8:00 AM (enhances campus security)
Dismissal: Begins at 2:25 PM
First Day Procedures: To help students establish routines and allow teachers to create structured learning environments, parents will not accompany children to classrooms on the first day. Our specially trained staff members will be stationed throughout the building to warmly welcome and guide our kindergarteners and new students to their destinations. Every child will feel supported and confident from their very first steps into our school.
Attendance Excellence: Student success is directly linked to consistent attendance and punctuality. All schools are evaluated on both academic achievement and attendance rates, making your partnership essential. Together, we can ensure every Tiger starts each day ready to learn and grow.
Transportation & Dismissal: Please confirm your child's transportation arrangements with their teacher. Kids Valet System (KVS) letters for car riders will be distributed during Orientation/Sneak a Peek events and on the first day of school.
Morning Enrichment Program
For families participating in our morning enrichment program, we begin at 6:30 AM. Please follow the arrival procedures outlined in our detailed chart to ensure a smooth, safe start for all students. This program provides additional learning opportunities and supports working families with early care needs.
Technology Integration: Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
In response to current educational funding challenges, CMIT South Elementary is implementing a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy to ensure every student has access to essential technology tools.
What This Means:
All students will bring their own Chromebook for seamless school and home use
This change allows us to maintain our commitment to technology-integrated learning despite budget constraints
We're dedicated to supporting families through this transition with resources and guidance
Device Setup Schedule: Our IT personnel will configure student devices on the following dates:
5th Grade: Tuesday, August 26, 2025
4th Grade: Wednesday, August 27, 2025
3rd Grade: Thursday, August 28, 2025
2nd Grade: Friday, August 29, 2025
1st Grade: Tuesday, September 2, 2025
Kindergarten: Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Technology Support: Our IT personnel ensure proper configuration of educational software, security protocols, and seamless integration with our learning management systems. We're committed to making this transition as smooth as possible for both students and families. Students do not have to bring their device to school until their setup date.
Uniform Policy: Temporary Flexibility
CMIT South Elementary maintains uniform standards that foster school pride, equality, and focus on learning. Due to significant delays with our uniform vendor, All American Wear, we're implementing temporary modifications to support all families.
Temporary Uniform Guidelines (Effective Immediately):
Bottoms: Navy blue or khaki pants, slacks, skirts, or skorts
Tops: Solid white, blue, or green shirts
Physical Education: White or gray plain t-shirts with navy or black bottoms
Additional Support: Our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) has organized a special "Back to School Twice as Nice" gently used uniform sale:
Date: Monday, August 25, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: School gymnasium
Benefits: High-quality, affordable uniform options while we resolve vendor delays
Uniform Resources:
Uniform Guidelines: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MjKmmc9R1bq3zST9Owa8kn7OeptfU_Az/view?usp=sharing
Money-Saving Coupon: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V1wvE4zAT5KMDZZ5C29XEheXwKNlmzsm/view?usp=sharing
We'll notify families immediately when regular uniform availability is restored and return to our standard policy.
Student Conduct: Building Character and Community
Research consistently demonstrates that positive student conduct is fundamental to school success. Our behavioral expectations create a safe, supportive environment where every scholar can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
CMIT South Elementary School-wide Behavioral Expectations:
I will treat everyone with kindness and respect
I will keep my hands and feet to myself
I will use appropriate language toward everyone
I will never tease, cause harm, name-call, or bully another student
Supporting Student Success: We ask families to reinforce these expectations at home, helping students understand that positive behavior learned in the family setting transfers directly to school success. The Prince George's County Public Schools Student Code of Conduct will be shared via link for your reference and support in maintaining consistent expectations.
Communication: Staying Connected
Effective communication between home and school is essential for student success. We utilize multiple platforms to ensure you stay informed and engaged:
Primary Communication Channels:
School Messenger: Official announcements and urgent notifications
Class Dojo: Daily classroom updates, student progress, and teacher communication
Email: Detailed information, newsletters, and individual correspondence
Weekly Newsletters: Comprehensive updates on school activities, achievements, and upcoming events
Staying Updated: Please ensure your contact information is current in Synergy to receive text message alerts and important communications. Regular communication helps us partner effectively in your child's educational journey.
Contact and Questions
We're here to support you and your family throughout this educational journey. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas. Your input helps us continuously improve and better serve our Tiger community.
Together, we're not just starting a school year – we're launching dreams, igniting potential, and building the foundation for your child's bright future. Remember: We are Leveling Up the STEMTasTic Way! Let's make this year extraordinary!
Have a Paww-Rific Day and an amazing school year!
Tauheedah N. Simmons-Lewis
Principal
CMIT South Elementary
Please take note of these important calendar reminders:
August 25 - Student orientation day
August 25 - Peek at your Seat
- August 25 - Twice as Nice Uniform Sale 9 am-2 pm
August 26 - First day of school for ALL students
August 29 - Back to School Bash 3 pm-6 pm
September 1 - Labor Day - Schools and Offices CLOSED
September 10 - Back to School Night 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
September 12 - Teacher Planning Half Day - Early Dismissal for Students
September 23 - Rosh Hashanah (starts at sunset 9/22)
September 23 - Professional Development - Schools Closed for Students
In November 2020, PGCPS launched an online volunteer application and approval process. Click here for more information on becoming a volunteer and to access the application.
Birthdays are so much fun to celebrate with classmates. However, during the school day, the health and safety of each student are important, especially students with food allergies. Students are ONLY permitted to bring in NON-FOOD items to distribute to classmates at the end of the school day. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping all of our students safe at CMIT South ES.
Additionally, please note that teachers and staff are unable to participate in distributing communications/invitations or email addresses related to birthday celebrations. All planning for birthdays needs to happen outside of school so that it does not take away from the purpose of instruction.
Attendance in school each day is important. Let’s stay in school.
In order for an absence to be considered excused, a written note must accompany the student no later than three (3) days after return to school. The note should include:
- date(s) of absence
- scholar’s name
- Reason for absence
Late or make-up work will not be accepted unless the absence is an excused absence. Please review Administrative Procedure 5113 AP 5113 - Student Attendance, Absence and Truancy for further information.
Students who are absent for ten consecutive days will be withdrawn on the 11th day and will need to re-enroll.
Lawful Absences
Students enrolled in public schools are considered lawfully absent from school for any portion of the day, only under the following conditions:
- Death of a family member
- Illness of the student
- Court appearance
- Work approved or sponsored by a school
- Observance of a religious holiday
- State of emergency
- Suspension from school
- Mental Health (Students may receive as an excused absence one (1) day of absence
- in each semester of each school year for a student’s mental health needs.
- Other emergencies
- Deployment-related absences
Unlawful Absences
Unlawful absence – any time a student does not attend school that does not qualify as the above-listed reasons for a lawful absence.
Tardy
Scholars will be officially tardy if they are not in the building at 8:05 a.m.
If your scholar enters the building after the 8:05 a.m. bell, a parent must escort them into the building and electronically sign them in the late arrival portal. Scholars will be given an orange tardy slip to be permitted to class.
Parents of students who have 10 or more tardies in a semester will be required to meet with the principal/designee to discuss the reasons for the tardies and to develop a plan for improvement.
School Meals
2025-26 School Year Meal Prices
Elementary (Pre-K through Grade 5)
Breakfast: $1.60/day
Lunch: $2.75/day
How to Pay
MySchoolBucks, owned and operated by Heartland Payment Systems, is an online payment service that provides parents the ability to securely pay for meals, monitor student cafeteria purchases, make tuition payments for Before and After School Extended Learning programs, and receive email notifications for low-account balances. With MySchoolBucks, payments can be made 24/7 using a Visa, MasterCard, Discover, credit or debit card, and mobile app.
Principal Lunch Account
ALL breakfast,lunch, and Principal lunch payments should be made via www.myschoolbucks.com.
All money comes/goes to 1 account (child's). All that is needed to set up account (if not done) is
students lunch pin or student id.
Free and Reduced-Price Meals
We encourage all families to consider applying for free and reduced-price meals! Visit www.myschoolapps.com/Home/PickDistrict to apply online today!
To apply, you will need:
- The name, school, and grade of your school-age children
- The name of all adults living in the home
- Income information for all adults living in the home
- Student ID Numbers for your school-age children
Applications will also be sent home with students the first week of school. Applications are available at all PGCPS schools and can be submitted at any time.
Dear Tiger Families,
As we start a new academic year, I’m excited to reintroduce myself to you as your school counselor. My name is Ms. Chandler, and I’m thrilled to be entering my 7th year here at CMIT South Elementary. It has been a privilege to work with such an amazing community, and I’m looking forward to another meaningful year of supporting our students, families, and staff.
A little bit about my background: I graduated from Temple University with a bachelor’s degree in communication, which helped me build strong skills in understanding and connecting with others. My passion for helping young people led me to pursue a master’s degree in school counseling from Trinity Washington University, where I specialized in working with urban students. This focus has given me valuable insight into the unique experiences and challenges our diverse student body faces.
I’m proud to share that I am now a National Board Certified Counselor, a milestone that reflects my dedication to professional excellence and commitment to continuous growth. I am also currently in the process of obtaining my counseling licensure, which will further enhance my ability to support our students and school community.
Over the years, I’ve remained committed to being approachable, compassionate, and fully present for our students. Whether it’s helping them navigate personal challenges, supporting their academic success, or collaborating with families and teachers to create a positive school environment, I’m here to ensure that every child feels seen, heard, and supported.
As we move forward into the new school year, please know that I’m always available to address any questions or concerns you may have. My goal is to help every student thrive both academically and emotionally, and I’m here to provide the resources and guidance needed to make that happen.
I’m excited to continue this journey with all of you and to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of our students.
Warmly,
Ms. Chandler
Professional School Counselor
National Board Certified Counselor
Dear First Grade Families,
Welcome to a brand new school year—we are so excited to begin this amazing journey with you! First grade is a year full of curiosity, growth, and discovery. From building strong reading and math skills to exploring science, writing, and so much more, we can’t wait to watch your child learn, grow, and shine.
We’re looking forward to a year filled with learning, laughter, and lots of first grade fun. Let’s make it the best year yet!
With warm wishes,
Mrs. Valera, Ms. Torrence, Ms. Hammond, Ms. Garrett
The First Grade Team ❤️📝📖🎉
Introduction
Our second grade team is comprised of veteran teachers Ms. Convert, Ms. J. Lewis, Ms. Parker and Ms. Womack. We are super excited to meet our second grade scholars for the upcoming 2025 - 2026 school year!
A message from Ms. Lewis:
Dear Parents and Families,
Welcome to an exciting new school year! My name is Ms. J Lewis, and I am thrilled to be your child’s 2nd grade teacher. I bring with me 13 years of teaching experience across multiple grade levels, including preschool, kindergarten, 1st, 3rd 5th and now 2nd. Teaching is truly my passion, and I am eager to share a year full of growth, learning, and fun with your child. Outside of the classroom, I am the proud mother to a wonderful 2nd grader and two playful fur babies who keep me busy. In my spare time, I enjoy studying as I continue to work towards my Master’s degree, cooking new meals for my family, and spending time with my friends. I am excited to partner with you this year to ensure that your child has a Tiger-ific experience full of academic success and personal growth. If you have questions related to academics, please reach me through my PGCPS email. For personal concerns or quick messages, I ask that you use the Class Dojo direct messaging feature. I look forward to an amazing school year together.
With Excitement,
Ms. J Lewis
A message from Ms. Parker:
Hello Families!
Welcome to the 2025 - 2026 school year. I am super excited to be embarking on this second grade journey with your scholar. I have been in education for over 10 years, working with students from age three all the way to third grade. I am currently a boy-mom of one and expecting my second little boy really soon. Although this may take me away from the classroom for a short period of time, I will do my very best to ensure your scholar doesn’t miss a beat while I am gone. Fortunately, i am a part of the best team at CMIT South ES and we will all work together to be sure all second grade students prosper this year. I can be reached by email or Class Dojo if ever you need to get in contact with me. I know we are going to have an amazing school year and I look forward to us working together!
-Ms. Parker
A message from Ms. Womack:
Greetings Tiger Family,
My name is Ms. Womack, and I am excited to teach your scholar this school year! This is my 7th year in education and my 4th year teaching second grade. I am thrilled to form an educational partnership with you to ensure we all have a successful and rewarding school year.
When I'm not in the classroom, I enjoy spending quality time with my family—especially with my amazing 5th grader, who keeps me inspired every day!
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me via my CMIT email address.
Looking forward to a great year together!
Warm regards,
Ms. Womack
Welcome back to all of our third grade students and families! Your Tigertastic Third Grade Teachers, Ms. Madison, Ms. Hendy, Ms. Howard, and Mrs. Flores, have been hard at work getting our classrooms ready for another great year of learning.
Don’t forget that “Sneak Peek” is this coming Monday, August 25 from 1 - 2pm. Our first day of school is August 26. Please make sure your student is prepared with the correct uniform, a chromebook, and needed school supplies. Students should bring lunch from home or be prepared to get lunch from school.
The first week of school is important for building community, establishing routines and expectations, and learning class procedures. We can’t wait to get started so please be on time! In conclusion, we want to share one fun fact about each of our third grade teachers:
Ms. Howard: she played collegiate basketball;
Ms. Hendy: she is a published author;
Ms. Madison: she is a twin;
Mrs. Flores: she and her family love Disney
We look forward to getting to know you and working with all of you!
Welcome to Fourth Grade! We are so excited to be working with you and your scholar this school year. We hope that everyone had a restful and recharging summer with family and loved ones. We will grow this year through courage and progress, always moving forward as learners and leaders. We look forward to seeing you at “Peek at Your Seat” on Monday.
The first week of school will be spent building routines, procedures, and expectations for our students. This year we are “Leveling Up” using data driven instruction. Students will also increase their writing stamina and abilities across all subject areas. Fourth grade teachers work collaboratively to ensure that instruction is mirrored in all classrooms. This year the fourth grade team has a new name and each classroom will have a theme.
Team Name: 4ward We are moving minds forward and leveling up the STEMTasTic Way!
Introducing the team:
Section 4.1- Ms. Crusoe’s Curators- “Collecting Knowledge, Shaping the Future”
Section 4.2- Ms. Felton’s Force- “Strength in Learning”
Section 4.3- Mrs. Weldon’s Wildflowers- “Bloom Where You’re Planted”
Section 4.4- Mrs. Pearson’s Pathfinders- “Blazing New Trails”
Important Upcoming Dates:
Monday August 25, 2025- Peek at Your Seat
Tuesday August 26, 2025- First Day of School
Monday September 2, 2025- Labor Day No School
Friday September 12, 2025 Teacher Planning- Early Dismissal
Uniforms:
We are a uniform school. Students must be in the proper uniform each and every day. Students are expected to have mostly black shoes. They may wear a navy blue or school logo jacket or pullover during class. Students will be asked to remove any jacket or sweater that is not following the uniform policy.
Welcome to Fifth Grade! 🎉
We are excited to kick off a fantastic school year in Fifth Grade! This year will be filled with new challenges, exciting projects, and plenty of opportunities for growth.
Meet your fifth-grade teaching team:
Ms. Abaniyaka – Reading/ELA & Social Studies
Mr. Barr – Math & Science
Ms. Jenkins – Math, Science & Health
Mrs. Mitchell – Reading/ELA & Social Studies
Together, we are committed to building a positive, engaging, and supportive classroom environment where students can succeed academically and grow as leaders.
We look forward to working with families to make this school year an amazing journey for our fifth graders! 🌟
Hello Students and Families!
We are thrilled to welcome you to a brand new school year full of creativity, movement, music, discovery, and fun! This year in Art, PE, Music, Technology, Lego, Maker's Lab, and Media students will explore new skills, express themselves in exciting ways, and grow as confident creators and problem-solvers.
From painting and coding to singing, dancing, and staying active, we have so many exciting experiences planned—and we can’t wait to get started!
Here’s to a fantastic year of learning and creativity!
— Your Creative Arts & Specials Team 🎭🖍️🏃♂️🎵💡
CHESAPEAKE MATH AND IT SOUTH ELEMENTARY
• Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 2:25 p.m.
• Grades: K-5
• Uniform: Yes
• Before After School Enrichment: Yes
http://clfmd.org/enrichment-2/
• School Colors: Orange and Black
- Uniform Colors: Hunter Green, Navy Blue, or white Oxford tops and Khaki or Navy Blue bottoms
• School Website: http://www.cmitsouthes.org
For more information